Stress Field Developed by Root Growth: Theoretical Approach

Abstract The finite element method of analysis was used to investigate pressures exerted by root growth in soils. Principal stresses and radial strains were determined in a soil in two different physical states, especially in the vicinity of the root tip. Corresponding growth rules used were those given by Nguyen's experimental data. As the root grows plastic zones, which have a near circular shape, appear around the root tip. This model provides the opportunity of changing the growth rule when confining pressures and soil mechanical properties change, thus enabling interaction between the root and soil to be taken into account. This method avoids the necessity of assuming either cylindrical or spherical expansion to the root. It makes it possible to simulate the actual root growth without using the analogy of the penetrometer action.